Næstved: A Danish Gem of History and Charm

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Denmark
Næstved

Nestled in the heart of Denmark, Næstved is a city that beautifully blends history with modern charm. Known for its medieval architecture, Næstved offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. As you stroll through the city, you'll encounter well-preserved buildings that tell stories of a time long past, including the iconic St. Peter's Church, which stands as a testament to the city's historical significance. Næstved is not just about history; it also boasts a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to several galleries and museums, including the Næstved Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on local history and culture. For art enthusiasts, the Rønnebæksholm Art and Culture Center offers a diverse range of contemporary art exhibitions set in a beautiful manor house. Nature lovers will find Næstved equally appealing. The city is surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The nearby Gavnø Castle and its stunning gardens provide a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy nature's beauty. Foodies will delight in Næstved's culinary offerings. The city's restaurants and cafes serve a variety of delicious Danish dishes, from traditional smørrebrød to modern gourmet cuisine. Be sure to visit the local markets for fresh produce and regional specialties. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Næstved has something to offer everyone. Its unique blend of historical charm, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination in Denmark.

Local tips in Næstved

Visit St. Peter's Church early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Check out local galleries for unique Danish art pieces.
Rent a bike to explore the surrounding nature trails.
Try the local smørrebrød at a traditional Danish café.
Plan a day trip to Gavnø Castle and its gardens.

Fil:Helligaandshuset Naestved.jpg - Wikipedia, den frie encyklopædi

File:Skt. Peders Kirke - Næstved.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Vildsvinet (BonBon-Land).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Fil:Suså i Næstved..JPG - Wikipedia, den frie encyklopædi

File:Grundtvigs Pavillon (Venligheden), Rønnebæksholm 2018.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Næstved?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Dodekalitten

Twelve colossal granite faces overlooking the Småland waters, singing in electronic harmony—Denmark's monumental fusion of sculpture, sound, and ancient memory.

Ladby Kirkeruin

Medieval stone ruin on a wooded hilltop, still hosting outdoor worship services centuries after abandonment.

Mindesten for Peder Bodilsen

Denmark's smallest equestrian statue honors the visionary founder of Næstved on historic Munkebakken hill.

Genforeningssten i Saltø Skov

A granite memorial stone marking Denmark's 1920 reunification with South Jutland, standing at a forest crossroads near Næstved.

Genforeningssten i Herlufsholm

Diskret granitmindesmærke ved Herlufsholm, hvor lokal erindring om Danmarks genforening i 1920 står midt i nutidens trafik og hverdagsliv.

Hans-Jørgen Færks Plads

Medieval market town square where Danish history, culture, and modern commerce converge in southern Zealand.

Mindesten for A. M. Kristensen

A humble memorial to Næstved's visionary first elected mayor and architect of the harbor that transformed the city.

Unmissable attractions to see

BonBon-Land

Cheeky candy characters, looping coasters and green picnic lawns combine at BonBon-Land, Denmark’s quirky countryside theme park for all ages.

Gavnø Slot og Park

Romantic rococo castle on the Island of Flowers, where art-filled halls, tulip gardens, chapel and treetop adventures share a historic Danish estate.

Holmegaard Værk

A historic Danish glassworks reborn as a vast living museum, where towering glass walls, working furnaces and ceramics collections illuminate 200 years of design.

Grønnegades Kaserne Kulturcenter

Historic cavalry barracks turned vibrant cultural village with concert halls, theatre, galleries and a family‑friendly atmosphere in the heart of Næstved.

Musicon-bydelen

Roskilde’s bold creative district in a former concrete factory, where rock museums, skateparks, street art, housing and festivals fuse into an ever-evolving urban playground.

Næstved Automobil, Nostalgi og Samler museum .

Step into 3,400 m² of classic cars, two‑wheelers and 1950s shopfronts at Næstved’s nostalgic automobile museum on the edge of South Zealand.

Stevns Klint Experience

Modern gateway to Denmark’s Stevns Klint, where immersive exhibits, fossils and films reveal how a single meteorite impact ended the dinosaurs and reshaped life on Earth.

Rønnebæksholm

Historic manor meets contemporary art in a tranquil 230-hectare estate just beyond Næstved's edge.

Bregentved

Historic estate parkland where baroque geometry, sweeping lawns and quiet woodland come together on the edge of Haslev’s rolling countryside.

VESTERHAVE VINGAARD

Organic vines meet Baltic sea views at one of Denmark’s leading cool‑climate vineyards, where tours, tastings and coastal light create a distinctly Danish wine escape.

Gavnø castle

Rococo castle, flower-filled island gardens and Scandinavia’s largest private art collection, all wrapped into a relaxed day out near Næstved.

Rundfart Friheden

Slow, scenic cruises from Næstved Harbour through canal and fjord to the coast, blending classic Danish boat charm with relaxed waterfront views and dining.

Næstved Museum

Compact town museum in historic Næstved, tracing South Zealand’s journey from archaeological finds and medieval streets to Holmegaard glass and modern everyday life.

Rønnebæk Fælled

Young woodlands, open meadows and restored wetlands form a relaxed green belt around Næstved, perfect for everyday walks, play and simple outdoor living.

Rådmandshaven

Tranquil riverside meadows and woodland paths just behind Næstved’s town buildings, offering easy walks, open lawns and calm Suså River views steps from the centre.

Essential places to dine

McDonald's Ringsted

Large, family-friendly McDonald’s by Ringsted Designer Outlet, combining fast classics, a McCafé and big seating areas for an easy, low-stress meal stop.

WOK & CHOPSTICKS

Casual Chinese cooking on Næstved’s central square, serving generous wok dishes, noodles and rice in a bright, unpretentious setting with dine-in and takeaway.

Restaurant Flammen

Hearty all‑you‑can‑eat grill buffet behind copper walls in central Næstved, bringing families, friends and groups together for relaxed, generous evening dining.

Hotel Kirstine

Half-timbered charm, leafy courtyards and Nordic comfort dining in the historic heart of Næstved, blending characterful rooms with a cozy wellness retreat.

Stacy's Diner Næstved

A larger-than-life 1950s American diner in Næstved, where you can eat burgers in a school bus or Cadillac amid neon lights, chrome and rock’n’roll flair.

The Burger

Easygoing burger café inside Ringsted Outlet, serving house‑recipe buns, juicy patties and flexible options for families, vegetarians and gluten‑free diners.

Cafe Vivaldi

Bright, central café‑restaurant with sunny terrace, hearty all‑day dining and front‑row views of Sct. Mortens Church in the heart of Næstved.

Restaurant Peking

Hearty Chinese and Mongolian buffet dining in Næstved, pairing generous all‑you‑can‑eat spreads with a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere and handy takeaway.

Hotel Vinhuset

Historic town hotel and cellar restaurant on Næstved’s church square, blending centuries-old architecture, seasonal partly organic cuisine and modern, eco-certified comfort.

Raadhuskroen

Hearty Danish comfort food served in a cosy 19th‑century kro setting in the historic centre of Næstved, ideal for unhurried lunches and convivial dinners.

Dhaba Næstved

Modern Indian street food with Nordic touches served beside Næstved’s historic church square, ideal for relaxed evening feasts and flavour-packed sharing menus.

Cafe Pyramiden

Næstved's welcoming brasserie where quality food, friendly service, and relaxed sophistication meet daily.

Sushi Takumi

Modern Japanese all‑you‑can‑eat sushi in the heart of Næstved, with fresh rolls, hot bites and a casual, lively atmosphere from lunch through late evening.

Ristorante Italia

Longstanding Italian favourite by Næstved Station, serving pizzas, pastas and hearty grills in a warm, family-friendly setting since 1989.

Pronto

Thin-crust pizza, hearty pasta and relaxed Italian comfort food at a compact, takeaway-focused neighborhood favorite in central Næstved.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ringsted Outlet

Denmark’s only true outlet village, Ringsted Outlet combines open-air streets, big-name brands and year-round 30–70% discounts into an easy day of shopping.

Næstved Storcenter

South Zealand's premier shopping destination with 70+ stores, free parking, and regional reach.

H&M

Bright, budget-friendly Scandinavian fashion for all ages inside Næstved’s main shopping centre, ideal for quick wardrobe updates during a wider mall visit.

Nike Factory Store

Discounted Nike sportswear and footwear in the heart of Ringsted Outlet, offering a warehouse-style selection of active gear for athletes, families and bargain hunters.

Parkens Butikcenter

Compact 1960s neighborhood shopping center in Sct. Jørgens Park, offering everyday Danish life, essential shops and simple eateries in suburban Næstved.

BOSS Outlet

Polished HUGO BOSS style at outlet prices, set within Denmark’s only true outlet village in Ringsted’s open-air shopping streets.

Skechers Factory Outlet

Large outlet-format Skechers store in Ringsted Outlet, offering discounted comfort footwear for all ages in a modern, easy-to-browse village-style shopping setting.

Bigdollar

Big, bright and budget-friendly, Bigdollar Næstved is a warehouse-style discount store packed with everyday essentials, quirky finds and seasonal deals under one roof.

Dansk

Big-box family clothing on a budget-friendly scale, Dansk Outlet Næstved keeps locals and travellers kitted out for Danish weather and everyday life in one easy stop.

Arabisk Butik

Compact Middle Eastern–inspired grocery in central Næstved, packed with spices, rice, fresh produce and everyday essentials for curious cooks and locals alike.

The Green Shop Ltd.

Harbour-side florist blending creative Danish floristry, seasonal blooms and cozy Nordic decor in a compact, light-filled shop in Næstved.

Næstved Vinhandel

Atmospheric neighbourhood wine shop in Sct. Jørgens Park, pairing a broad bottle selection with tastings, gourmet treats and knowledgeable, personal guidance.

Kop & Kande Næstved

Compact Danish homeware store on Kanalvej in Næstved, combining practical kitchen gear, stylish tableware and thoughtful gifts in a bright, well‑organised space.

Kræmmerhus ApS

Næstved's treasure house of gifts, chocolates, tea, and Nordic charm.

INTERSPORT Seiffert Næstved

Central Næstved sports store on Hjultorv, offering practical gear, expert shoe fitting and everyday activewear for locals and visitors alike.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Old Irish Pub

Authentic Irish pub energy in central Næstved, open late Friday and Saturday with live music and draught beer.

Humle Ølbar

Craft beer excellence in the heart of Næstved—where hops meet hospitality.

VINBAREN

Atmospheric wine bar by Næstved’s historic cinema, serving thoughtful wines and shareable tapas in an intimate, hygge-filled setting ideal for slow, sociable evenings.

Sluk Efter

Unpretentious local pub on Kindhestegade in central Næstved, pouring cold beers and simple drinks in a cozy, social setting from midday to late night.

Pub Dyssen

Unpretentious neighborhood bar in Næstved where Danish hygge, cold beer, and local conversation come together in a simple, welcoming setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Næstved

Discover Næstved with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHej
  [hey]
- GoodbyeFarvel
  [far-vel]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så venlig
  [vair so ven-lee]
- Thank youTak
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUndskyld
  [oon-skyld]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vo-ron har doo deh]
- Fine. And you?Fint. Og dig?
  [feent. oh day]
- Do you speak English?Taler du engelsk?
  [tah-ler doo en-gelsk]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yeh for-stor ee-keh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gerne se menuen, tak
  [yeh veal gair-neh seh meh-noo-en, tahk]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kød
  [yeh spee-ser ee-keh koo-eh]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skol]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gerne betale, tak
  [yeh veal gair-neh beh-tah-leh, tahk]
- Help!Hjælp!
  [hyelp]
- Go away!Gå væk!
  [goh vayk]
- Call the Police!Ring til politiet!
  [ring teel po-lee-tee-et]
- Call a doctor!Ring efter en læge!
  [ring ef-ter en lay-eh]
- I'm lostJeg er blevet væk
  [yeh air bluh-vet vayk]
- I'm illJeg er syg
  [yeh air sook]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gerne købe...
  [yeh veal gair-neh koo-beh]
- I'm just lookingJeg kigger bare
  [yeh kee-ger bah-reh]
- How much is it?Hvor meget koster det?
  [vor meh-eh ko-stehr deh]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deer]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sænke prisen?
  [kan doo sain-keh pree-sen]
- What time is it?Hvad er klokken?
  [vad air kloh-ken]
- It's one o'clockDen er et
  [den air et]
- Half past (10)Halv ti
  [hahlv tee]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mee-dag]
- EveningAften
  [ahf-ten]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gur]
- TodayI dag
  [ee day]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
- 1Et
  [et]
- 2To
  [toh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Fire
  [feer-eh]
- 5Fem
  [fem]
- 6Seks
  [seks]
- 7Syv
  [soov]
- 8Otte
  [oh-teh]
- 9Ni
  [nee]
- 10Ti
  [tee]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vor air en/et]
- What's the address?Hvad er adressen?
  [vad air ah-dress-en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise mig (på kortet)?
  [kan doo vee-seh me (poh kohr-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvornår er næste (bus)?
  [vor-nar air nai-steh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En billet (til ....)
  [en bee-let (teel ....)]

History of Næstved

Næstved, located on the island of Zealand in Denmark, was founded in the early 11th century. It quickly developed into a significant market town due to its strategic location by the Suså River, which facilitated trade and transportation. The town's early growth was marked by the establishment of religious institutions and a thriving marketplace.
By the 13th century, Næstved had become one of Denmark's most important towns. The construction of St. Peter's Church, a large Gothic edifice, and the Benedictine Abbey of St. John emphasized the town's ecclesiastical significance. The town was granted privileges by the Danish monarchy, further boosting its economic and political status.
The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought significant changes to Næstved. The dissolution of the monasteries led to the closure of the Benedictine Abbey. However, the town adapted by shifting its focus to trade and craftsmanship. Næstved became known for its pottery and tile production, industries that would sustain the local economy for centuries.
During the Renaissance, Næstved saw a cultural and architectural transformation. The town's layout was enhanced with the construction of new buildings and structures, including the famous Helligåndshuset (House of the Holy Spirit), which served as both a hospital and a guild house. This period also saw the establishment of educational institutions, fostering a spirit of learning and innovation.
The 19th century brought industrialization to Næstved, transforming it into a modern urban center. The arrival of the railway in 1870 connected Næstved to Copenhagen and other major cities, spurring economic growth. Factories, particularly in the ceramics and textile industries, became prominent, and the town expanded rapidly.
During World War II, Næstved was occupied by German forces. The town played a role in the Danish resistance movement, with local groups conducting sabotage operations against the occupiers. The legacy of this period is remembered through various memorials and museums dedicated to the resistance efforts.
The latter half of the 20th century saw a cultural renaissance in Næstved. The town invested in the arts, establishing galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals. The Næstved Museum, which houses significant historical artifacts and exhibits, became a focal point for preserving and celebrating the town's rich heritage.
Today, Næstved is a vibrant town that blends its historical heritage with modern amenities. The old town center, with its cobbled streets and medieval buildings, stands in contrast to contemporary shopping centers and residential areas. The town continues to celebrate its history through various cultural events and festivals, attracting tourists from around the world.

Næstved Essentials

Næstved is located on the island of Zealand in Denmark and is easily accessible from Copenhagen, the capital city. The nearest international airport is Copenhagen Airport (CPH), approximately 80 kilometers away. From Copenhagen, you can take a direct train to Næstved, which typically takes around 1 hour. Alternatively, you can drive from Copenhagen to Næstved via the E47/E55 highways, which takes about an hour.
Næstved offers a range of transportation options to help you get around the city and its surroundings. The city has a well-connected public bus network, and taxis are readily available. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Næstved, and you can rent bikes from various rental shops. For exploring the wider region, renting a car is a convenient option. The city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
The official currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted in Næstved, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout the city, and you can withdraw cash using international credit or debit cards. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.
Næstved is generally a safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, but it is still advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire services, and medical emergency services. Næstved has several medical facilities, including Næstved Hospital, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. Avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A polite 'hej' (hello) is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Danish delicacies and be open to trying new foods. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Næstved like a local, visit the weekly market in Axeltorv Square, where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Gavnø Castle and its stunning gardens, and the Næstved Museum to learn about the city's rich history. For a unique experience, explore the Suså River by kayak or boat, offering beautiful views of the natural landscape.

Næstved: A Danish Gem of History and Charm

Local tips in Næstved